The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback room has likely already been decided on before cut-down day. Patrick Mahomes is the unquestioned starter and veteran Gardner Minshew is the backup. After the third preseason game, Chiefs fans probably assume Chris Oladokun will be the practice squad QB since he came into the game before Bailey Zappe.
That said, on Sunday, a veteran former Chiefs quarterback signed with a new team. According to Adam Schefter, the Minnesota Vikings have signed veteran quarterback Carson Wentz. Wentz joining the Vikings at this point in his career might be the best option for him.
Vikings reached agreement with Carson Wentz, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 24, 2025
Former Chiefs QB Carson Wentz Signs with Vikings
Entering this offseason, the 32-year-old quarterback still believed he held value as a starting quarterback in the NFL. This is why it has taken Wentz all the way up until the end of training camp and the preseason to sign with a team. Even so, signing with Minnesota should increase his chances of playing well if he needs to play in 2025.
The reason for that is because of Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell being a quarterback whisperer. Last year, O'Connell got the most out of Sam Darnold. In 2024, Darnold completed 66% (361/545) of his passes for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Prior to that, he had never completed over 61% of his passes in a season. Though Wentz has lots more experience than Darnold, the 32-year-old hasn't played at a high level since he started for the Indianapolis Colts in 2021.
That year, he completed 62.4% (322/516) of his passes for 3,563 yards, 27 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Since then, Wentz has been less than impressive as a backup, including his stint in Kansas City last year.
However, now with O'Connell in his ear, Wentz's play could look better if he's asked to start. Moreover, Wentz will provide value to the Vikings as a backup.
Last year, Viking quarterback J.J. McCarthy missed his rookie season because of a torn meniscus. Therefore, for all intents and purposes, 2025 will be his rookie year in terms of playing. As with all young players, McCarthy will have his ups and downs, but Wentz will be there to help him navigate it.
Despite the fact that Wentz didn't work out as a backup for the Chiefs, his outlook on the Vikings is much different. Nevertheless, Chiefs Kingdom likely prefers the quarterback room heading into this season better than they did the QB room heading into 2024.